About this service
Minor cuts and lacerations may need cleaning, assessment, and advice about healing. Some wounds need stitches (sutures), staples, skin adhesive, or another closure method. The provider chooses the approach based on the wound rather than assuming every cut needs stitches.
Tell the provider when and how the injury happened, what first aid you used, and your tetanus vaccination history if known. Serious or very deep wounds, bleeding that will not stop, or loss of movement or sensation need emergency assessment.
What to Expect
A visit may include:
The goal is to close the wound safely, minimize scarring, and prevent infection.
- Evaluate the depth, size, and location of the wound
- Clean and irrigate the wound to reduce infection risk
- Determine whether stitches, staples, skin adhesive, or bandaging are needed
- Check tetanus vaccination status and update if necessary
- Provide aftercare instructions to support proper healing
When to Visit
You should visit urgent care for cuts or lacerations if you have:
- Wounds caused by dirty or rusty objects
- Signs of infection such as redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage
When to seek emergency care
Seek emergency care for bleeding that will not stop, loss of sensation or movement, very large or deep wounds, or serious wounds involving the face, tendons, or bones.
Frequently asked questions
Can urgent care treat deep cuts?
Yes. Many cuts and lacerations can be safely treated at urgent care.
Do all cuts need stitches?
No. Some wounds can be treated with adhesive strips or glue, depending on size and location.
How soon should a cut be treated?
Ideally within a few hours to reduce infection risk and improve healing.
Will I need a tetanus shot?
You may need one if your vaccination is not up to date.